How To Guides Buy Kitchen Cupboards

Date Published:

10/06/2008

You needn't replace your whole kitchen to get a brand new look. Installing new cupboard doors will do the trick for a fraction of the cost.

By Mark Ramuz

Most fitted kitchens are made in such a way that the units are almost completely hidden by a run of doors and drawers, so replacing just these parts will make a dramatic difference and will cost a fraction of the price of a whole load of new units.

If your kitchen units are less than about 15 years old, they will probably be made from 15 or 18mm thick melamine-faced chipboard and fitted with standard kitchen door hinges.

Most doors are made 4mm narrower than the carcass, so a 500mm unit will have a 496mm door to allow for clearance. If you're making up your own units, use this 4mm clearance as a guide when ordering. The door height should be 5mm shorter than the units, again to give clearance for drawers or cornice. You will also need to note down which doors are left and right-handed opening.

If your existing doors have standard kitchen hinges that fit into 35mm diameter holes in the door, then there's no reason why you can't re-use these on your new doors. Check with your supplier on the spacing of the pre-drilled hinge holes on their new doors.

Where to Buy?

Assuming your kitchen units are of a standard size, you could easily pick up new doors at DIY stores, or updated versions from the company that originally fitted your kitchen. Failing that, there are many companies that will provide you with finished or unfinished doors, such as World of Doors and Home Style Kitchens.

Or, of course, you can have new doors made up by a joiner or skilled carpenter, either out of solid wood or MDF (medium density fibreboard), which could then be painted to get the colour scheme exactly right. Another good place to search for new (or recycled) doors are internet auction sites - but remember to check the measurements meticulously before you bid.